Superfood: Wheatgrass

Superfood: Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass is a baby wheat plant that’s harvested when it reaches its nutritional peak. But this grass isn't just for four-legged grazers — wheatgrass serves up health benefits for two-legged ones, too. Bellying up to the juice bar for a shot of wheatgrass is a quick way to get a dose of the greens, but it can also be added to smoothies or taken in pill or powder form.

Grass Guzzling — Your Action Plan

Wheatgrass juice can be found at most juice bars and smoothie joints, but it’s also available in pill or powder form at many health food stores. There is also the DIY option to plant and sprout the seeds and juice them at home (don’t worry; growing this type of grass is legal). The seeds will sprout and be ready to consume within nine days, but to get the juice flowing, the right equipment (like a masticating juicer) is helpful. Because wheatgrass is usually grown in soil or water and consumed raw, it can be tainted with bacteria or mold, so it is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. And while side effects are not normally experienced, it has been known to cause headache and nausea in some. When wheatgrass is juiced, it will oxidize quickly, so gulp it up fast to get the most benefit. This is probably a good technique anyway, as to not prolong the grassy taste. If taste is a challenge, the pill or powder may be a little easier on the taste buds (and the wallet). Wheatgrass powder can be purchased in bulk, and the pills are often the cheapest and most convenient option. Try these tips to start incorporating wheatgrass into any diet today: